Frankfurt become the latest German city on Bristol Airport’s destination map earlier today when bmi regional started its six-times a week service to the major European finance centre.
The first flight just after midday marked the return of a direct link between the two major cities after a gap of almost four years.
German destinations have featured strongly for several years among the ‘most wanted’ routes identified by Bristol Airport, particularly from the business community.
But, until recently, the German market had been underserved from the South West, forcing passengers to airports in other regions for direct flights
However, since opening a base at Bristol Airport last year, bmi regional has launched a double daily Hamburg link, today’s Frankfurt flight and is to start services to Hannover and Munich on May 13. From the same day the Frankfurt service will operate twice a day, six days a week, with a schedule designed to make a day’s business trip possible.
The airline also operates a double daily flight from Bristol to Aberdeen and will start a daily service to Milan next month.
Chief commercial officer Steve Hoy said: “We’re excited to launch another new route that connects the South West to a European commercial and financial centre. This demonstrates our commitment to further enhancing the connectivity of the region across the UK and Europe. We now operate four routes from Bristol Airport to major German business hubs including Frankfurt, Hanover, Munich and Hamburg which can only benefit businesses in the area. We’re looking forward to further expanding our route network throughout 2013.”
Bristol Airport aviation director Shaun Browne said: “Frankfurt is an interesting destination for leisure visitors, but the big win is for businesses across the South West and South Wales who now have a direct link to one of Europe’s leading commercial centres.”
bmi regional operates an all jet fleet. Complimentary food and drinks are served onboard, and passengers receive a free 20kg hold baggage allowance.
Pictured: From left: Bristol Airport aviation director Shaun Browne with bmi regional chairman Ian Woodley
